KUALA TERENGGANU – The public is advised not to touch, hold, or keep the Velella velella jellyfish, or the “by-the-wind sailor”, stranded on the beaches of Terengganu.
State Fisheries Department director Zawawi Ali said the blue marine creature might not be dangerous to adults, but could cause itchiness in children.
“Normally, the jellyfish float out at sea. They may be driven by strong winds and waves and be beached at Pandak Beach in Chendering, Teluk Ketapang Beach (Kuala Nerus), and Rhu Muda Beach (Marang).
“The people should inform the nearest Fisheries Department or the local authorities for further action if they chance upon any species of jellyfish,” he said in a statement here today.
He said the department had requested the local authorities to put up signboards reminding beachgoers not to touch the jellyfish.
“It has a beautiful colour and may pique the interest of individuals, especially children, to take a look and touch it as they don’t realise the risk.”
He said the Velella velella species was different from the Portuguese man o’ war found on the beaches in Terengganu early last year.
“The Portuguese man o’ war has a bubble to stay afloat and a very poisonous tail, while the Velella velella has a sail and no tail.
“To date, there are two cases linked to the jellyfish, namely in Setiu and Teluk Ketapang. We hope the public will be more alert when participating in recreational activities on the beaches,” he added. – Bernama, March 7, 2021
